Lee County Archives – Page 10 of 11

Biography of Jacob Hepperlin

Jacob Hepperlin, a German immigrant born in 1827, ventured to America in 1854, seeking opportunities. Overcoming initial hardships, Jacob’s resilience led him to success in farming and business. Settling in Paw Paw, Illinois, he now enjoys retirement, supported by significant investments in real estate and a productive farm. Married thrice, Jacob’s life is a testament to perseverance and adaptability. With his third wife, Cynthia, they are active in the Methodist Episcopal Church, embodying the spirit of community and faith. Jacob’s journey from a newcomer to a respected community member highlights his enduring legacy of hard work and determination.

Biography of Jacob Aschenbrenner

Jacob Aschenbrenner, an established coal dealer in Amboy, Illinois, originates from Hesse-Cassel, Germany, born in 1825. After serving in the German army and participating in the 1848 Revolution, he immigrated to the U.S. in 1855, eventually settling in Lee County. Jacob transitioned from farming to coal dealing, making significant contributions to his community, including serving as Alderman and on the Board of Education. Married twice, he has three children from his first marriage. A founding member of the local Lutheran Church, Jacob’s life story is marked by resilience, entrepreneurship, and public service, underscoring his importance in Amboy’s history.

Biography of Stewart Wilson

Stewart Wilson, a devoted farmer and stock-raiser in Palmyra Township, hails from Pennsylvania, born in 1849. His family, with Scottish and German roots, moved to Illinois in 1856. Stewart owns a farm passed down from his father, demonstrating significant cultivation and success in breeding Shetland ponies. Marrying Emma A. Fisk, they have a daughter, Lorena. A respected community member, Stewart’s integrity and commitment to his Presbyterian faith mirror his family’s values. Active in local governance as Road Commissioner, his life is a testament to dedicated agriculture, family heritage, and community service, reflecting a legacy of hard work and faith.

Biography of Dennis C. Harden

Dennis C. Harden is a prominent figure in Nelson Township, engaging in farming, stock-raising, and dairy business on his quarter-section farm. Born in Pennsylvania in 1849, he moved to Illinois at four, where he honed his agricultural skills on his family’s land. His successful farm, acquired in 1873, showcases his adeptness in cultivation and livestock management. Marrying Miss Kate McCleary, he’s recognized for his contributions to local development, holding various offices and supporting township improvements. A Republican and Lutheran, Harden’s life reflects a blend of hard work, community service, and family legacy, making him a respected citizen in Lee County.

Biography of George F. Stainbrook

George F. Stainbrook, serving as Lee County Sheriff, epitomizes the drive and determination of a successful young man from Dixon. Born in the county in 1858, he descends from a Pennsylvania Dutch lineage with roots stretching back to a German immigrant and a Revolutionary War hero. George’s life, deeply intertwined with farming, shifted towards law enforcement when he became Deputy Sheriff, leading to his election as Sheriff in 1890. Recognized for his youth and efficacy, George, alongside his wife Anna B. Mulkins, an accomplished artist, contributes to the community while adhering to Republican principles and participating in various civic organizations.

Biography of Cornelius Vroom

Cornelius Vroom, a dedicated farmer from Nelson Township, has made significant strides in agriculture on his 80-acre farm near Nelson Station. Born into a Dutch-descendant family on Staten Island in 1840, Cornelius moved to Illinois in 1859, where he has since prospered through hard work and thrifty habits. His farm, acquired in 1869, showcases his commitment to cultivation and stock-raising. Cornelius and his wife, Libby, actively support the Methodist Church and the community’s welfare. A Republican by political affiliation, Cornelius is respected for his honesty and steadfast character, embodying the enduring spirit of his Dutch ancestry and the foundational values instilled from a young age.

Biography of Hon. James Ryon, M.D.

Hon. James Ryon, M.D., of Amboy, has a storied past beginning in 1827, Pennsylvania. With Irish heritage, he pursued medicine, graduating from Rush Medical College, and later delved into law and politics, notably serving in the Illinois Legislature and as a Civil War Colonel. Post-war, Ryon focused on his medical practice, also engaging in banking and coal business ventures. Married to Ruth A. Ives, they had a daughter, Carrie S., whose early demise deeply affected them. A staunch Republican, Ryon’s contributions span medicine, politics, and community service, reflecting a lifetime of dedication and impact.

Biography of William H. Acker

William H. Acker, a distinguished farmer in Amboy Township, exemplifies success through his well-maintained farm and evident prosperity. Born in New York in 1832, Acker moved to Indiana before settling in Illinois, where he has significantly contributed to his community since 1871. Married to Mary Calkins, the couple has two surviving children, reflecting a family life marked by both joy and sorrow. Acker’s commitment to education and politics, serving on the School Board and as an active Republican, highlights his dedication to civic engagement. His and his wife’s family backgrounds, rooted in early American states, trace a journey of perseverance and community building.

Biography of Schuyler Ransom

Schuyler Ransom, an emblem of hard work and success, transformed his life from poverty to prosperity in Nelson Township over 25 years. Arriving with little, his determination and savvy in farming and stock-raising allowed him to amass a valuable property, making him a respected figure in the community. Born in 1822 in New York, Ransom ventured to Illinois, overcoming early financial hurdles to eventually own a quarter section of land. Today, his farm stands as a testament to his efforts, featuring state-of-the-art improvements and cultivation, symbolizing the fulfillment of the American dream through perseverance and strategic planning.

Biography of Thomas J. Buckaloo

Thomas J. Buckaloo is a respected farmer in Dixon Township, managing 141 acres inherited from his pioneering family. Born in 1842 into a family with Dutch and Irish roots, Thomas has dedicated his life to agriculture, except for a brief stint as a carpenter. His marriage to Maggie A. Craddock, whose family brought milling innovation to Ogle County, Illinois, has produced five children, with some following in their father’s educational footsteps. Valued for their integrity, the Buckaloos are well-regarded in their community. Politically a Republican, Thomas focuses on his farm, boasting quality livestock and fruitful lands, embodying the success of hard work and heritage.

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